Film director Bong Joon-ho (55) expressed his love for soccer while providing live commentary on the match of soccer player Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur).
On the 22nd (Korean time), Director Bong appeared on Park Moon-sung's YouTube channel 'Dalsune Live' alongside broadcaster Kim Shin-young, providing real-time commentary on the UEFA Europa League (UEL) final match between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United held early that morning.
'Live commentary' refers to a situation where a viewer explains and reacts to the game in their own words while watching, without a live broadcast due to copyright issues.
Director Bong's appearance this time began with his participation in the YouTube channel for movie promotion last March. At that time, Tottenham had reached the quarter-finals, and Director Bong said, "If Tottenham reaches the final, please invite me again." To keep that promise, he reappeared and provided commentary with commentator Park.
Upon taking his place for the commentary, Director Bong said, "I slept for about three hours. Tottenham wins with an own goal," and showed his soccer fan side by stating, "I expect (Son Heung-min) to come on in the second half."
When Son Heung-min stepped onto the field in the 22nd minute of the second half, Director Bong cheered with a standing ovation. The other participants, including commentator Park, remarked, "When the director stands up and claps, it feels like Cannes here." In response, Director Bong joked, "I won't talk about movies at such an important moment."
The match ended with Tottenham's victory. Tottenham celebrated their first title in 17 years. Son Heung-min also enjoyed the joy of lifting his first championship trophy in 15 seasons since his debut in European football's top tier in 2010 with Hamburg in the Bundesliga.
After the match, Director Bong said, "It has become a memory I will never forget," and commentator Park mentioned, "Director Bong agreed to come back if Tottenham reaches the Champions League Round of 16 next season."
A photo posted by commentator Park on social media after the broadcast captured Director Bong seemingly mimicking Son Heung-min lifting the championship trophy.
Director Bong communicated with the public through his film 'Mickey17', which was released in February. The film attracted approximately 3.01 million viewers in South Korea and starred actors Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, and Steven Yeun.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
